My experience is some what different from what one might think. I wasn't a volunteer or a donor, or even a client. I was actually just someone who was interested in what was going on in a local park. ... text
CHRISTMAS WISH PROGRAM
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Well I wasn't expecting this. I had a wonderful experience with Project Hawai'i Summer camp and didn't know that every year we would have to do a survey to tell our story. I had to think about all the fun I had all over again.
This survey is about healthy living. How the camp helps the children live healthy.
As a teen mentor I was able to help them with basic daily care of their hygiene. I taught them skills that I guess they don't have because they are homeless? I was able to help them learn to wash their hands before eating, and brush their teeth after. I was able to help them understand that it is important to take care of their bodies inside and out.
We played lots of sports that keep them fit, and taught them to exercise every day. I was able to help teach them lots of outdoor games and sports. Over all my experience was great. I feel that the opportunity I was given by this program was great and wonderful.
The children were hard work but worth every minute. I loved my camp buddies and my experience.
Thank you for the opportunity and the lessons I learned.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
participating as a teen mentor
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
I would get them more funds, and supportive help
My experience is some what different from what one might think. I wasn't a volunteer or a donor, or even a client. I was actually just someone who was interested in what was going on in a local park. One afternoon while walking through the park downtown, I saw a woman setting up a make shift service area and putting out tables with clothing, toys, books, all kinds of things. I asked if it was yard sale or something? She replied no, I just come down on Sundays and give away stuff and feed the homeless children. I was surprised about the calm in her voice and the excitement she felt to be there. I asked if she needed help, she just said if I wanted to help fold the outfits together. I kind of just wanted to know what was going on. I didn't know there were homeless children, and couldn't imagine how truck loads of items were going to be given away. Time passed, and I saw the park fill up with hungry, dirty children. Some had no shoes, or even shirts. They just kept coming over and getting food, taking clothing, and books. It was amazing. These children went home with arms full of stuff, and their bellies full. About one hour went by, and everything was gone, the families started leaving, and this wonderful lady (still smiling) started packing up the remaining items and tables. She seemed very content and happy. I was talking with her about why she did this, how she knew to do this. She just replied "Its my Kuleana. (In Hawaiian that means responsibility). She stated she was born to do this and wouldn't know what else to do with her life. I was amazed., and wanted to share my experience. This program is incredible and to think it is run by one lady with a huge heart.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
viewing the difference it makes to the community.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
watching the children get what they needed, and their smiles from all the joy Magin brought to their day.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
She was wonderful. She was there alone, and didn't seem to mind.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
I saw what she did with only a few dollars, I could only imagine the impact with a million, let alone 10. There would no longer be a need for homeless agencies. She would be able to end homelessness.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
One time
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
Hello Everyone who wants to know about this wonderful experience. I am happy to once again participate in the survey to share my experience. I guess this year they want to know how Project Hawai'i Summer Camp cares for the health of the children. As well how my experience was.
Well let me start with the health issues. Did you know that the children who attend this camp don't even have basic hygiene needs. They are homeless children living in tents and cars, in the bushes and along the beaches of Hawai'i. Did you know that these children weren't even able to brush their own teeth, or wash their own hair before this program showed them how to care for themselves.
Well, Project Hawai'i Teen Mentoring Summer Camp allowed me the opportunity to help these children become healthy and learn basic hygiene skills. Every day we would show the children how to care for themselves, and help them learn the reason why they need to do so.
The program was able to raise enough money with our help to even send them home with hygiene products they can use for months.
While I was able to mentor the little children and help them grow, I too was able to learn more independence and learn that life isn't just about me. I had a bigger purpose in life....and that was these children.
I am happy to share this experience. I hope that other teens are able to learn and grow and help others as well.
I do recommend this program to be awarded for the the Healthy survey. This camp keeps the children healthy.
Also, the camp offers very nutritious meals. We ate with the little children of course, but the food was soooo healthy. The children learned how to eat properly and not junk food. Every day was a new theme to learn to eat good foods. We had zoo day and we ate Bananas covered in peanut butter and rolled in cereal. Then at the ocean day, we went "fishing" we had celery fishing poles dipped in cream cheese and then fished for gold fish crackers. The children were so happy, but they were eating good food.
If you have the opportunity to attend Project Hawai'i Summer camp, Do it!! It is the best time of your life just waiting to happen.
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Some of our Adventures
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
teen mentoring. I attended as mentor and actually grew more from my experience than any other life experience I have had.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
I would help them to get more support. They are always struggling to provide for these childrens needs. It is funny how there is so much money being spent on things that don't really matter while children live homeless in our country.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
What one change could this group make that would improve your volunteer experience?
I wish that there were more people involved. It is a long and worth wild cause, but tiring because there isn't enough help.
Did your volunteer experience have an effect on you? (teaching you a new skill, or introducing new friends, etc.)
It changed my life forever. I was able to meet new people, learn a new culture and make an impact over my summer vacation.
How did this volunteer experience make you feel?
It made me feel like my life was worth something. I do make a difference.
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2008
My experience with Christmas Wish Program was very rewarding. I am only giving 4 stars because I wasn't really sure what to expect and then I thought that there could of been more organization with the program overall. I was shocked to see how the children lived and what the difference we made in just a short time being with them. I was able to help with the delivery of the hygiene products that we purchased by the director. There was fundraiser in Oahu that I was a part of to collect supplies and money. At the fundraiser a few people came with small donations of products the agency asked for, and many people came with small monetary donations to help purchase items. The fundraiser fell short of its goal, but the director Magin didn't really seem to mind, she just purchased what was needed out of her own pocket expenses. I felt a bit confused because she didn't seem to care that it costs her hundreds of dollars to fill all the bags. The next day I went with her to hand out the bags and was amazed at that process. She just drove to the beaches and went up to every tent and asked if children lived there. She gave the bags to the families, talked with the children a bit and walked to the next tent. It was shocking that the children live in this environment and the items we brought were a huge impact on their daily lives. Anyhow, I never went back. Sometimes I feel sad for the children living like that, and then I also feel like it is too much to make a difference. Magin has a heart like no others and it is hard to match that. I just wish her well and hope for the best for her and the children she helps.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
an eye opening experience. I was surprised at the whole process. I know that agency is for real, unbelievable but real. I know that she does more than she has the funds to do, and she cares beyond belief. But I will never participate again. It is too hard
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
be to get this agency more supplies, funds and help. Definatly needs help and organization to be more successful.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
seeing the difference that Magin actually made. When she was hundreds of dollars short from the fundraiser, she just purchased all the extra stuff needed. I don't know anyone who would go that extra mile for these children.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
were not very helpful. The volunteers who came didn't have the same passion as Magin. In fact I think that they were there for the wrong reasons. I wish there were better volunteers.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
really change the world, make it a better place for the children of the islands. In fact, it would make this organization one of the best in the world. The passion behind the director is unsurpassed by anyone.
Ways to make it better...
there had been more helpers and volunteers at the fundraiser. We were short handed and that made it difficult. Plus we were unsucessful at collecting enough supplies.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
dedicated volunteers, lack of funds and not enough organization in the programs office
One thing I'd also say is that...
The program is wonderful, the children are precious, there just needs to be more help and support. One person is doing too much, and needs help to make it even better.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
One time
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
I had a wonderful, fantastic, incredible experience with Project Hawai'i Summer Camp as a teen mentor. Because of my experience I was able to earn extra credit in High School and use my volunteer hours and community service certificate to apply for the best schools.
That is only the start of my benefit from this wonderful summer camp experience.
My life as a teen mentor meant so much to the homeless children I worked with over the summer. We formed an ever lasting bond that helped me to grow as I helped them gain self esteem and life skills. Working for those less fortunate than others is a hard experience to get use to, but once you understand the impact on your own life and how you are changing others, it is the best feeling in the world.
I am glad that I was asked once again to participate in this survey about my experience.
I was able to learn so much about a new culture and life experience away from my own environment. I grew from this experience more than ever imaginable. My experiences included swimming with dolphins, learning hula, and other exciting Hawaiian traditions. I was blessed to have such a wonderful experience with a wonderful program.
I say if you are a teen, like working with children, love to explore and travel....this is the best program around.
If you like to help others and make a difference, then this is it!! Project Hawai'i is the best ever!!
I was asked to write how "HEALTH" is incorporated in this camp for this survey.
Well, helping to keep homeless children healthy is a major part of the program. Not only do the children get meals daily, they are nutritious and healthy for their growth. I saw the children "get fat" in front of my eyes from the nutritious meals they were served. I was amazed about how hungry these children really are. Even during the camp when they knew that food would be coming, they still over ate because of the fear of being hungry later. They were able to eat good food, lots of veggies and proteins wtihout the fats or fried foods. They also got milk and yogurt, fresh juice and natural foods. It was awesome.
Also for the health factor....the children were given all their hygiene needs. They were taught how to brush their teeth proper, how to bathe and take care of themselves. When they left camp, the children went home with bags of hygienic products to help keep them clean and healthy for months to come. During camp a dentist came and showed the children how to brush proper. What foods to eat to keep their teeth healthy. This program is on it when it comes to health needs.
Videos
Graduation Lu'au
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Hawai'i. I was able to work with the children and teach them all sorts of things. I was able to learn about a new culture and meet wonderful people. I also got to help raise money to give the children their back to school supplies and new outfits.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
make sure they got the funding needed to continue this awesome program. It is run 100% by volunteers and solely supported by public donations. I know that it needs more of both. I wish I could change that need
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Quite well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
What one change could this group make that would improve your volunteer experience?
I wish that more teens were involved. It would make it more fun for the teens and would make it easier on the directors.
Did your volunteer experience have an effect on you? (teaching you a new skill, or introducing new friends, etc.)
OMG!! It was a huge impact. I changed so many views of the world. I grew so much and became very independent. This was the best experience of my life. I wish I could do it every year!! I made new friends, got 200 hours of service towards my graduation. I was able to learn new cultural experience and travel. I was well cared for which allowed me to grow.
How did this volunteer experience make you feel?
It makes you feel like you truly made a difference. It is the best feeling ever.
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
My experience working with Christmas Wish Program, Inc has been amazing. The love that the volunteers share and have for the homeless children is amazing. I was able to work hands on with the children after working on fundraisers and projects designed to make their holidays brighter. My family was able to get involved and make a difference as well. I was able to see first hand how the children live in poverty and how this organization make a difference with the food and living needs they provide. It was shocking to see how the children actually live, but knowing that they will have a hot nutritious meal because of the efforts put out by Christmas Wish is truely a blessing.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
different aspects from fundraising to delievery as well as helping to get ready for parties and other services they provide for the homeless children.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
the way all the volunteers have the same passion to help and make a difference. Working with the children and volunteers fills your heart with love. When you leave the program, it is hard not to want to be involved for the next upcoming event.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
amazing with a passion to really make a difference.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
end homelessness on the Hawaiian islands. I can truthfully say that because there are no salaries or other funds taken from the benefits. The director of the organization would utilize the funds to end homelessness and put all our precious children in
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every six months
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
Here in beautiful Hawaii it is difficult to believe that 1/3 of the homeless are children under the age of 10 and of these 1/3 are under the age of 5. CHRISTMAS WISH PROGRAM helps these precious children with food, clothing, school supplies and many other necessary items. I am proud to be a part of this truly remarkable organization.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
By beind a witness to the happy faces of these lovely children.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
This organization is doing all possible to help the children, above and beyond with unconditional love and dedication.
Brought my wife and child out as part of the volunteer experience. I am in the military and volunteering is very important to my family. We would be very glad to work with Magin again.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
this was my first experience with the group.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Oahu should be a hotbed for volunteers. With so many military personnel Magin should have more than enough volunteers. I know I will do my part to ensure maximum participation. I look forward to working with Magin to increase exposure and volunteers.
More feedback...
Ways to make it better...
more volunteers would have been involved/
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
One time
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
I just finished helping this organization complete their Healthy Hearts Campaign for homeless children. It was amazing to see the director deal with all the obstacles that occur while just trying to make a difference in the community. Not only do volunteers not show up for their assigned shifts, they actually have the nerve to grumble about the conditions, or lack of support, etc. It is amazing that Magin can keep it together so well. She worked for a month to put together a collection drive to get new shoes for the homeless children and provide funds for the summer camps athletic program. During the 3 hour shift she was harassed by the public about "who are you?, or the homeless need to get jobs" all kinds of junk like that. All along she just continues to conduct her drive and hopes to get enough shoes to make a difference. One school group did a drive at their school, and there was another teen group helping with the collection, holding signs, etc. But not half the people showed up, and we were behind on donations. It was hard as a volunteer to see all this happening when the whole point is just to help homeless children. I was amazed that at the end of the 3 hour shift she thanked everyone and said we all did a great job. I know in her heart she felt bad for the homeless children, as she was about 50 pair of shoes short. I asked what happened next. Her response was pretty amazing. She stated she would never allow a child to be left out and would just purchase all the missing shoes. She said that these fundraisers are to allow people the opportunity to make a good decision and to help out. She continued to say that she never expects much, and is just grateful for whatever comes. She understands that not everyone can keep their commitments or give a donation. I just want to say Thank you Magin, and keep up the good work. I know the children do care about the difference you make, and that someday it won't be so hard to get this community involved with such great efforts.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
volunteering my time.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
knowing I make a difference.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
the director and her assistant are amazing and hard working people. I hope they continue despite the challenges they encounter.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
Really? a million bucks? She would save the world she lives in. She saves our little world on a few thousand dollars....
Ways to make it better...
people would have shown up for their shift, and we had more donors
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
lack of support on all aspects
One thing I'd also say is that...
if people really knew what went into this program, and that fact that it is run 100% by volunteers, I think that people would feel more compelled to give.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
One time
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
I've worked with Magin and the Christmas Wish Program this past summer for the Keiki School Supply Drive and collected toys this Christmas for the local homeless children on the island. I love that this organization is so committed to making a difference in our community and has cut through so much red tape to give to those who need it most. I would work with this organization any time and feel blessed to have found them.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
knowing my contributions really make a difference in the lives of children in need.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every six months
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
I sew enjoy volunteering with the Christmas Wish Program! Magin recognizes what I love to do, and gives me great projects that are fun and help the project. I've made a Santa costume, elf clothes, and this year added a collection of Santa bags to transport gifts to the homeless kids. It's great to feel good about helping others!
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
that my special talents and interests are considered in offering me projects.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
great! everybody seems to work together well, without politics or bickering.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
take care of every homeless kid in Hawaii
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every six months
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
Collecting money from cars passing by at kapolei was an awesome experience for me. I have never done it before, and i was kind of nervous at first because it was my first time volunteering for homeless kids. And the other thing was that I have not tried walking around the street wearing a huge sign before. After a while though, I felt more comfortable. Even though it kinda drizzled, and there were only a few of us, it was really a great experience, we collected a lot of money and it just feels so great when you know that you have done something to help kids or people who are less fortunate. I hope that we could help more homeless kids and anyone who can't afford things that most of us could. Imagine how many people we could help if we continue to do this.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
I met new people, and building confidence
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
a college student, who shared info about college with me while we were collecting money, a student from another school, the people in charge of the service project that we did.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
help a lot of homeless people not just children
Ways to make it better...
there were more people, who are students from other high schools, like me.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
One time
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
For years now, it's been my pleasure to be able to work with those at Christmas Wish program in Hilo, Hawaii. This group is one of the most devoted and dedicated to reaching out to our homeless community, especially the children, that I have ever seen. Magin Patrick, our leader, is such a wonderful giving person, she is an angel! Without her, and this program, so many unfortunate people on this island would never have this opportunity to celebrate the holidays. The joy and laughter that is seen and heard from the families is astounding. PURE JOY!! I have learned when you reach out to the less fortunate, it is an undescrible feeling, like nothing else. We should all be so lucky to be a part of this movement and do whatever we can to keep it progressing. We ARE making a difference!!!!
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Volunteering and seeing first hand the positive effect it has on everyone.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
help Magin Patrick organize her volunteers.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
Being with the children and families during the holidays. They are all so grateful and appreciative.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
Just everyday people who just show up to help out. Some had more experience than others, but everyone helping each other.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
Go alot further, be more organized, help more people, and truly make a huge difference in our community.
Ways to make it better...
There was more volunteers and more organization for the volunteers to help.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
Keeping it going. There are so many holidays and folks in need, it can be overwhelming. So many homeless families, that need help!
One thing I'd also say is that...
This organization is well worth the effort. We cannot just rely on our county or state organizations to help these folks along. It takes true dedication of many more individuals, who do this out of the goodness of their hearts, no one getting a paycheck
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every six months
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
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